Iran vows to retaliate after U.S. widens sanctions

The United States has announced expanded economic sanctions targeting Iran, which it claims will sever the country's economic lifeline. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent unveiled the measures but did not specify which countries would be targeted or when the penalties would take effect. The sanctions include 60 individuals, entities, and vessels, but exclude Chinese financial institutions believed to be involved in facilitating Iran's oil trade.

Iran has vowed to retaliate against the U.S. sanctions, expressing confidence that major trading partners would resist Washington's pressure campaign. Iranian Economy Minister Ali Madanizadeh stated that Iran is fully prepared for the sanctions and predicted that other countries would oppose them. Brigadier General Hossein Mohebbi threatened heavy blows to U.S. vital interests and energy chokepoints if Iran's infrastructure is threatened.

Despite the U.S. and Israel launching strikes on Iran six months ago, the war shows little sign of reaching a diplomatic solution. Iran's war capability remains intact, and it continues to threaten Gulf neighbors and oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. The U.S. is seeking new ways to end Iranian attacks and has renewed its blockade of Iran's ports, which has already reduced Iranian oil exports to China.

Bessent declined to identify the countries targeted by the sanctions and stated that no one is above the reach of U.S. sanctions.